Chennai International Airport is located in Tirisulam, 19km (12 miles) southwest of central Chennai.

Airport code

MAA

Airport news

The new international opened in August 2013, four months after the new domestic terminal also came into operation. Considerable further expansion is planned, including the construction of a second runway. A Metro rail station, which will link to the city, is at the planning stage.

Transfer between terminals

Access between two terminal buildings, which are quite far apart, is currently either by free battery operated vehicles or coach services. The construction of moving walkways between the terminals is yet to be completed.

Driving directions

It is relatively easy to drive from central Chennai to Chennai International Airport, or the other way. Take the GST Road (Mt Road/Anna Salai) leading southwest from the city or northeast from the airport and then just follow the signs.

Car rental

Car hire counters for several local companies can be found in the arrival areas. It is normal in India to hire a vehicle with a driver.

Public transport and taxis

Bus: There is a bus stop outside the airport gate, which is a relatively long walk from the terminals. Bus 18A departs frequently for central Chennai. The journey takes around 45 minutes.Taxi: Taxis are available outside the terminals. Pre-paid taxis are the most commonly used means of transport by international travellers heading for Chennai city (journey time: around 40 minutes). Tickets can be booked from a counter in the arrivals area of the terminal buildings. ‘Auto rickshaws’ are also available.Rail: There is a Southern Railway (tel: (044) 600 003; www.indianrail.gov.in) suburban railway station just outside Chennai International Airport, called Tirisulam. Trains run from here to Egmore Station in Chennai every 20 to 40 minutes from early morning until late evening. The journey time is around 30 minutes and fares vary depending on the train and class chosen.

Car parking

There are car parking spaces directly outside the terminal buildings.

Information and help desks

Information desks are available in both terminals. Tourist information is also available.

Airport Facilities

Money: Foreign exchange counters are available in the departure and arrival areas of both terminals. ATMs are available in the domestic terminal.Communications: Internet access and video phones for conference calls are available at Chennai International Airport's communication centre. Paid-for Wi-Fi access is also available in the terminals. A post office is located on-site.Food: There is a good selection of restaurants and cafés in both terminals. There are also snack bars and vending machines for snacks, drinks and newspapers.Shopping: The choice of shops at Chennai International Airport is relatively good and includes duty-free outlets, gift shops offering locally-made and luxury goods, bookstores and newsagents. A pharmacy is located in the domestic terminal.Luggage: Luggage trolleys are available free of charge. Queries about lost luggage can be directed either to the airport information desks or to the relevant airline.Other facilities: A medical facility is on hand to assist with minor and major emergencies. Free mineral water is available for travellers through designated water coolers in both terminals. Chennai International Airport has dormitory accommodation and rest rooms for transit passengers.

Chennai International Airport offers special assistance, reserved parking spaces, adapted rest areas and toilets for physically disabled travellers. In addition, there is an ambulift facility to aid boarding and disembarkation. Passengers requiring assistance should notify their airline and the airport in advance of travelling.

Airport hotels

There are no on-site hotels at Chennai International Airport, but several can be found within a short distance of the site. Most offer free shuttle transfers to and from the airport.

Trident HotelBoasting a choice of two restaurants offering both local and international cuisine, the 167-room Trident Hotel is an upmarket hotel just 15 minutes' drive from Chennai International Airport. This 5-star hotel also offers extensive business and meeting facilities, a spa, and a fitness centre with an outdoor pool. 1/24 GST RoadChennai 600 027, IndiaTel: (044) 2234 4747.Web: www.tridenthotels.com